Graduate Student Assocation Mission

The Graduate Student Association (GSA) was formed in 1969 in order to provide a link among graduate students, the College of Graduate Studies’ administration and faculty, and the surrounding Philadelphia community. Our goal is to be a voice for graduate students within the University, representing their unique needs and concerns. Monthly open meetings are held to deliver news and information and provide a forum for students to address new issues that arise.

The Graduate Student Assocation plans programs in four areas: intellectual, professional, social, and community service. Presentations and Conversations in Research (PCR) allow students to present their research in a relaxed atmosphere to other students. Last year, the GSA initiated a “Women in Science” seminar series in collaboration with the Association for Women in Science (AWIS) Philadelphia chapter.
The GSA also works closely with the Alumni Association to bring in speakers from various science careers. Socially, the GSA hosts several Happy Hours each semester and plans trips to local museums and sporting events, providing students with discounted tickets. Each summer we encourage students to get out of the lab for the day to go Whitewater Rafting in the Poconos. Finally, the GSA has worked with the Franklin Learning Center, a local high school with a science program, and participates in the American Cancer Society’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” walk each fall.

The Graduate Student Assocation is open to all students in the Jefferson College of Graduate Studies and encourages participation from new students by planning “Welcome Week” activities the first week of the new school year.